RPG event in Niger on Mon 19th October 2026

Nigerien Forces Capture Two Suspected Bandits, Seize Heavy Weapons, Starlink in Bilma 

By: Zagazola Makama

Nigerien security forces have captured two suspected armed bandits and seized a vehicle, heavy weapons, ammunition and communication equipment following a pursuit in the southwestern outskirts of Bilma.

According to a security report dated Oct. 19, 2026, the operation followed the continued pursuit of a vehicle occupied by suspected bandits by a departmental patrol.

The report said the chase extended into a sandy area dotted with dunes in the southwestern part of Bilma, where the suspects’ vehicle became stuck.

The occupants reportedly abandoned the vehicle, identified as a V6, and attempted to take positions on the surrounding dunes.

The patrol, upon sighting the abandoned vehicle and the suspects’ movements, engaged them in a firefight.

The report said the security forces, through coordinated action, successfully neutralised the threat and captured two suspects.

The vehicle, bearing Chadian registration number T10-14908, was recovered alongside a substantial arsenal of weapons and military equipment.

Items seized included one 12.7mm machine gun with its serial number erased, one RPG-7 launcher, one Kougar launcher, one AK-103 rifle with three empty magazines, 12 RPG-7 rounds, including two unserviceable rounds, and eight Kougar grenades.

The forces also recovered 60 rounds of 12.7mm ammunition, 64 rounds of FM80 ammunition, four sealed ammunition boxes, 12 RPG-7 charges, a spare FM80 barrel and a pair of RPG-7 binoculars, according to the report.